Varistors

Varistors

Varistors, also known as voltage-dependent resistors (VDRs), are electronic components that are used to protect sensitive electronic devices from voltage surges and transient events. They are passive two-terminal devices that exhibit a non-linear resistance characteristic, which means that their resistance decreases as the voltage across them increases. Varistors are made of a ceramic or metal oxide material, such as zinc oxide, that has a highly nonlinear resistance characteristic. When a voltage surge or transient event occurs, the varistor conducts current and shunts the excess voltage away from the sensitive electronic device. This protects the device from damage that could be caused by overvoltage or voltage spikes. Varistors are commonly used in power supplies, surge protectors, and other electronic devices that are susceptible to voltage surges and transient events. The performance of a varistor is characterized by its voltage rating, which is the maximum voltage that it can withstand before it begins to conduct current. Varistors are available in a wide range of voltage ratings, from a few volts to several thousand volts. They are also available in different sizes and shapes, depending on the application. In summary, varistors are electronic components that are used to protect sensitive electronic devices from voltage surges and transient events. They are made of a ceramic or metal oxide material that exhibits a highly nonlinear resistance characteristic. Varistors are commonly used in power supplies, surge protectors, and other electronic devices that are susceptible to voltage surges and transient events.

voltage-dependent resistors, non-linear resistance, ceramic, metal oxide, voltage surges

— Richard Gonzalez